AVEBURY

Stonehenge is often billed as the place to head to experience Neolithic architecture in the UK. It's hard to argue that the famous ring of standing stones is anything but amazing. However, its popularity is also its downfall: a high fence prevents you getting up close. If you really want to feel close to the ancient people who created such monuments, head to Avebury.

Just 40 minutes up the road lies this Neolithic touchstone, which contains no fewer than 3 stone circles, with a quaint Wiltshire village in the middle of it. Avebury is Europe’s largest stone circle, and is accompanied by a series of other monuments, including West Kennet Long Barrow and Silbury Hill.

What makes Avebury really special is the fact that you can roam freely amongst the stones, even getting close enough to touch them. A museum in the village will help inspire your imagination, and a good pub in the village will quench your thirst. So pack up a picnic basket and make a day of it.